Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, South of France (le Midi), France

Eyragues Beaches

Overview

While Eyragues is a charming Provençal village, it is located inland, making it a unique base for a coastal holiday. The nearest Mediterranean beaches are about an hour's drive away, offering visitors the best of both worlds: a tranquil village retreat combined with exciting day trips to the sea. This setup is ideal for travelers with a car who wish to explore the rich culture of Provence, from its historic towns to the Alpilles mountains, while also enjoying the diverse coastline of the South of France.

From Eyragues, you can easily access two distinct coastal experiences. To the south lies the Camargue, a region of vast, wild landscapes. Here you can discover the immense, undeveloped shores of Piemanson or the spectacular protected dune system at Plage de l'Espiguette. Alternatively, head to the Côte Bleue for a different feel, where you'll find more sheltered and intimate beaches. Among our picks is the beautiful, lesser-known sandy cove of Plage de St Croix, while the breathtaking Calanque d'En-vau rewards hikers with one of the most dramatic landscapes in the Calanques National Park.

Whether you prefer the windswept, natural expanse of the Camargue or the picturesque, secluded coves of the Blue Coast, Eyragues serves as an excellent starting point for your adventures. The region's variety ensures there is a perfect beach for every taste, from those seeking solitude in nature to those looking for a scenic spot to relax. For more inspiration and a comprehensive list of destinations, be sure to explore our full guide to the area's beaches.

Top Beaches

Plage des Arènes

The most convenient and family-friendly option, this is the main beach in the heart of the Camargue's primary seaside town, Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. Located right in the town center, it offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and a vibrant, lively atmosphere. The beach stretches out from the port, providing a wide expanse of fine sand with views of the Mediterranean and the nearby historic village. Its location means the energy of the town's charming streets, with their shops and cafes, is just steps away. This creates a classic seaside resort feel, where you can easily move between relaxing on the sand and soaking up the local culture. It perfectly embodies the spirit of a Mediterranean holiday, combining the wildness of the Camargue with the comforts of its capital.

FAQ

People Also Ask

How far is Eyragues from the nearest beach?

Eyragues is an inland village and does not have its own beaches. The closest beaches on the Mediterranean coast are approximately a one-hour drive away. The wild, sandy beaches of the Camargue, like those near Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, are about 50-60 km to the south. The coves and beaches of the Côte Bleue, near Carry-le-Rouet, are a similar distance to the southeast.

Is Eyragues a good base for a beach holiday?

Eyragues is an excellent base for exploring the wider Provence region, including its famous inland villages, historical sites like Avignon, and the Alpilles mountains. While it's not a traditional beach holiday destination, it is suitable for travelers who want to enjoy a classic Provençal village experience and take occasional day trips to the coast. A car is essential for this type of holiday.

What are the best family-friendly beaches to visit on a day trip from Eyragues?

For families, the beaches near Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer in the Camargue offer vast stretches of sand perfect for children to play on. On the Côte Bleue, Plage de Sainte-Croix near Martigues is a popular choice for families due to its fine sand, shallow waters, and nearby amenities. Both options are about an hour's drive.

Plage de St Croix

Which is better for a day trip from Eyragues: Camargue beaches or the Côte Bleue?

It depends on your preference. The Camargue, with spots like Plage de Piémanson, offers vast, wild, and undeveloped sandy beaches for a natural, windswept experience. The Côte Bleue (Blue Coast) features a mix of smaller sandy beaches and rocky coves (calanques), like those in Carry-le-Rouet or Sausset-les-Pins, which are often more sheltered and have more amenities.

Piemanson

Are there accommodations in Eyragues with a good pool for a 'beach feel'?

Yes, since Eyragues is inland, many visitors opt for accommodations with a great swimming pool to relax and cool off. You can find numerous 'gîtes' (holiday rentals), villas, and some hotels in and around the village that feature private or shared pools, often set in beautiful gardens.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Are there any river or lake swimming spots near Eyragues as an alternative to the sea?

Yes, Provence offers several freshwater swimming alternatives. A popular spot is the Gardon river near the Pont du Gard, which is great for a swim with a spectacular historical backdrop. There are also various 'plans d'eau' (lakes or water parks), such as the one in Monteux, which can be a closer and calmer option than the sea, especially for families.

Do you need a car to visit the beaches from Eyragues?

Yes, a car is practically essential. Eyragues is a village with limited public transport connections to the coast. Having a car gives you the freedom to explore different types of beaches, from the Camargue to the Côte Bleue, and to travel on your own schedule. The drive to the nearest beaches typically takes around one hour.

What are the beaches in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer like?

The beaches at Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer are the main beaches of the Camargue region. They are known for being long, wide, and sandy, with a wild, natural feel. Some beaches close to the town have amenities like lifeguards and restaurants, while others stretching out into the Camargue Regional Natural Park are more deserted and undeveloped.

Are there sandy beaches or are they all rocky near Eyragues?

You can find both types within driving distance. For wide, sandy beaches, your best bet is the Camargue coast (e.g., Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, Plage de Piémanson). For a mix of pebble beaches and rocky coves, known as 'calanques', you should head towards the Côte Bleue, Cassis, or Marseille.

Piemanson

What is the best time of year to visit the coast to avoid crowds?

To avoid the biggest crowds and heavy traffic, the best times for a beach day trip are late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September). The weather is still warm and pleasant for swimming, but you'll miss the peak French holiday season of July and August.